Wills Lawyer in Alicante
Specialist Legal Services for British Citizens
Why British Citizens Need a Wills Lawyer in Alicante
As a British citizen with property or assets in Alicante, having a properly drafted Spanish will is essential. Under EU Succession Regulation 650/2012, British nationals can choose to apply United Kingdom inheritance law to their Spanish assets, but this must be explicitly stated in a valid Spanish will. Without a Spanish will, your estate could face lengthy probate proceedings, unexpected tax consequences, and potential conflicts between Spanish and United Kingdom inheritance rules. Our experienced wills lawyers in Alicante specialise in cross-border estate planning for British clients, ensuring your wishes are legally protected across both jurisdictions.
Our Wills Services for British Citizens in Alicante
Spanish Will Drafting
Professional drafting of Spanish wills tailored to British citizens, incorporating EU Succession Regulation provisions and ensuring compatibility with any existing United Kingdom will.
Cross-Border Estate Planning
Comprehensive estate planning that coordinates your Spanish and United Kingdom assets, minimising tax exposure and ensuring seamless succession across both jurisdictions.
Will Registration & Notarisation
Complete handling of will registration with the Spanish Central Registry of Last Wills (Registro General de Actos de Última Voluntad) and notarisation in Alicante.
Will Review & Updates
Regular review and updating of existing wills to reflect changes in personal circumstances, Spanish law, or United Kingdom legislation affecting your estate.
Areas We Cover Near Alicante
Key Authorities for British Citizens in Alicante
Land Registry
Registro de la Propiedad de Alicante
Notary
Notaría de Alicante
Town Hall
Ajuntament d’Alacant
Consulate
British Consulate Alicante
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Spanish will if I already have a United Kingdom will?
Yes, having a separate Spanish will is strongly recommended. While a United Kingdom will can technically cover Spanish assets, a Spanish will dramatically speeds up the probate process in Spain, avoids costly legal translations, and ensures compliance with Spanish formalities. Your Spanish will should complement, not contradict, your United Kingdom will.
Can I apply United Kingdom inheritance law to my Spanish assets?
Yes, under EU Succession Regulation 650/2012, British nationals residing in Spain can choose to apply United Kingdom inheritance law to their entire estate through a professio juris clause in their will. This can help avoid Spanish forced heirship rules.
What happens if I die in Spain without a will?
If you die intestate in Spain, Spanish intestacy rules will apply to your Spanish assets by default. Your estate will be distributed according to Spanish succession law, which may differ significantly from United Kingdom rules. The process is considerably longer and more expensive.
How much does making a Spanish will cost?
The cost varies depending on the complexity of your estate and cross-border considerations. Contact our Alicante office for a personalised consultation and transparent quote tailored to your specific situation.
Do I need to appear before a Spanish notary?
Yes, Spanish wills must be signed before a notary public. Our lawyers in Alicante will accompany you to the notary, arrange an official translator if needed, and ensure all legal requirements are properly fulfilled.
Can my spouse and I make a joint will in Spain?
No, Spanish law does not recognise joint or mutual wills. Each person must make their own individual will. However, our lawyers can draft complementary wills for couples that work together harmoniously to achieve your shared estate planning goals.
Related Legal Services for British Citizens
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